Midge Ure leads tributes to Ultravox's Chris Cross, who has died aged 71

Virgin Radio

2 Apr 2024, 08:42

Tributes are pouring in for Chris Cross, following the Ultravox star’s death at the age of 71.

The musician - real name Chris Allen - co-wrote the massive hit, Vienna. He died on 25th March, and the sad news was announced last night (1st April).

Ultravox frontman Midge Ure took to social media to pay a loving tribute to his former bandmate, writing on Facebook: “Chris Allen. 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.”

He added: “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 🙏”

Chris Cross was one of the founding members of Tiger Lily in 1974. The band later changed their name to Ultravox. Midge Ure joined in 1979. Along with Vienna, their other hits include Dancing with Tears in My Eyes and All Stood Still.

Fans have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to pay their respects. The account of the band Jesus Jones wrote: “Absolutely heartbroken to hear of the passing of Chris Cross. The sound of my youth, and the fuel for a life of musical dreams. RIP, Chris x”

One fan wrote: “So sad to hear about Chris Cross from @UltravoxUK who passed away last week. My all time favourite band since 1980, I was lucky enough to meet him a few times and he was such a funny and friendly fella. Absolutely gutted, RIP Chris and thanks for the music and memories.. 😞”

Another added: “Devastated to hear the news of Chris cross’s passing a real hero of mine from the early days of Tiger Lilly and through the two incarnations of Ultravox never the front man but an essential part of their hits #RIP”

Someone else said: “Definitely the first bass player to make his way through my Walkman headphones in 1985, into my brain and influence the rest of my life’s journey in music. RIP #ChrisCross”

The thoughts of everyone at Virgin Radio are with Chris’ family and friends.

Listen to Ultravox on Virgin Radio 80s Plus.