Iconic Irish band Aslan has confirmed it will continue on without late frontman Christy Dignam.
The legendary singer, best known for Aslan’s hit track Crazy World, this year at the age of 63.
He was in January, following a diagnosis of rare disease amyloidosis since 2013, for which he .
Despite the illness, Dignam continued to perform with the rock group, and Aslan had been due to perform across Ireland this year before his death.
Now the surviving members have confirmed they will continue touring and performing under the Aslan name.
In a statement on social media, members Joe Jewell, Billy McGuinness and Alan Downey began by letting fans know they would not be taking part in a tribute to Dignam set up by his family but that they ‘wish them well with the event.’
The wrote that they had ‘spent the last number of months grieving the loss of their dear friend and band mate. They have been trying, and continue to try to find their own way of coming to terms with their huge loss.’
They revealed that ‘after a lot of thought and consideration’ they have decided to ‘continue with Aslan, playing their music and performing for their loyal and loving fans. Through this they hope to do Christy proud.’
While ‘things will never be the same without [Christy] by their side,’ the trio confirmed ‘a new singer’ will be joining them in Aslan.
They stressed the new singer, who would be announced soon, was not a ‘replacement’ for Dignam as ‘there will never be another Christy Dignam.’
‘The lads want to get back to doing what they love most, playing their music.’
They added: ‘Aslan will be back in 2024 and we know Christy would be proud to hear and see what’s to come. Joe Alan and Billy are so looking forward to seeing all their loyal fans again.
‘It will be very emotional but having the most devoted fans imaginable will make the next stage of their journey that bit easier to embark on.’
Aslan was formed in 1982 in the northside of Dublin, wit debut single This Is becoming hugely popular in Ireland and their first album topping the charts.
Dignam left the band in the early days amid addiction issues, however they reformed in 1993 – going on to produce their most successful single, Crazy World.
He was diagnosed with amyloidosis in 2013, with charity conerts organised to help pay for his ongoing care; the likes of U2 played at the concert to raise funds, with a recording of their first single This Is.
Dignam had continued playing with Aslan and touring with the band until he became too unwell last year.
His death was announced by daughter Kiera in June, who said he had died after a ‘courageously long-fought battle, surrounded by his family.’
‘Let us all hold him in our hearts and cherish the remarkable life of a talented singer, great storyteller and amazing person,’ she added.
He is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Kiera and his grandchildren.
