Dario G star Paul Spencer dies, aged 53
Dario G star Paul Spencer has died at the age of 53.
The DJ and producer passed away yesterday (Monday June 17), a post on his official social media accounts confirmed. He’d announced in June 2023 that he had been diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today,” a statement from his family read. “He was positive until the end but this was one battle he could not fight anymore.”
It continued: “He leaves behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people. He will be sadly missed by everyone who loved him. Shine bright our big star – K, A & H xxx.”
Dario G were originally a dance music trio comprising Spencer and fellow DJs Scott Rosser and Stephen Spencer. They were named after Dario Gradi, the manager of Crewe Alexandra football club at the time.
Paul Spencer, who was born in Crewe, had been using the Dario G moniker for his solo work in recent years.
The original group were best known for their 1997 debut single ‘Sunchyme’, which went to Number Two in the UK. It was beaten to the top spot by Elton John‘s ‘Candle In The Wind’ – the musician’s tribute to Princess Diana.
Dario G followed up with the song ‘Carnaval de Paris’ for the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, with it peaking at Number Five in the UK. Their next single, ‘Sunmachine’, sampled David Bowie‘s vocals from his 1969 track ‘Memory Of A Free Festival’.
Numerous artists have paid tribute to Spencer online. Sonique, who collaborated with him on 2021’s ‘Keep On Lovin’, said: “Rest in peace my dear friend. I am so happy we made a song together. You have left us much too soon. We will miss you.”
Sigala hailed Spencer as a “huge inspiration and such an incredibly kind and selfless person”, adding: “Taken far too soon. Rest in peace buddy.”
Electronic duo Phats & Small wrote: “Lost for words. One of the good guys, you’ll be missed brother.” Radio DJ Chris Stark said: “Gonna miss ya Paul. A shining light in the world. The loveliest, supportive, brilliantly creative guy. RIP lad x.”
Alice Deejay commented: “Heartbroken. We will miss you lots R.I.P Paul.” MistaJam shared: “Sending love & sincere condolences to his friends and family. Rest in Peace, thank you for the music.”
Spencer had given an update on his health in December 2023, saying that he had been undergoing chemotherapy.
He also released a single called ‘Savour The Miracle Of Life’ last year in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Following Spencer’s death, a spokesperson for the charity said: “He was incredibly kind and will be missed by everyone who knew him.”
The official Dario G Instagram page has shared a fundraiser for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice. You can donate here.
The post Dario G star Paul Spencer dies, aged 53 appeared first on NME.
Tom Skinner
NME
