- The bass player whose real name was Chris Allen died last week aged 71
Ultravox star, Chris Cross who played the bass and co-wrote their classic Vienna hit, has died age 71.
The musician – real name Chris Allen – died on March 25 but the sad news was only announced late last night.
Ultravox frontman Midge Ure paid tribute to his friend: ‘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. 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.’
Ultravox star, Chris Cross who played the bass and co-wrote their classic Vienna hit, has died age 71
Ultravox star, Chris Cross who played the bass and co-wrote classic Vienna hit, has died age 71
Warren Cann, Billy Currie, Chris Cross and Midge Ure Various in 1982
Born in London, Chris joined the Tiger Lily band in 1974 which later evolved to become the iconic 80’s band Ultravox.
The band achieved their first breakthrough with their album Ure before wowing music fans with their fourth album Vienna.
In 2009 the band reunited for a reunion tour and released their final album Brilliant.
Tributes flooded in on social media after his death was announced.
One wrote: ‘His basslines, from the Lonely Hunter and the Wild, the Beautiful and the Damned, to Astradyne and Same Old Story, are part of what inspired me to go out there a be a musician! Rock in peace.’
Another said: ‘Shocked and gutted by this news today. One is never prepared for the loss of their adolescent musical heroes. Rest in peace Chris. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.’
A third added: ‘My very first concert back in May 1984 was Ultravox, I remember it like it were yesterday. RIP Chris, thank you for the music and memories.’
This is a breaking story. More follows.