Denise Johnson: Tributes paid to singer who worked with Primal Scream, Pet Shop Boys and many others
28 July 2020, 13:50
Music legends have paid tribute to Denise Johnson, who has died aged 56.
Denise Johnson, a Manchester-born singer best known for her vocals on Primal Scream's Screamadelica, has passed away at the age of 56.
A Certain Ratio, a band Johnson often collaborated with, confirmed the news, saying: "She had been ill in the week prior to her death but told friends she was 'much better' on Friday.
"She was found on Monday morning and the cause of death is not yet known."
Tributes have been shared online for the much-loved vocalist, including messages from the Stone Roses' Ian Brown and Primal Scream's Simone Marie Butler.
RIP LOVELY DENISE JOHNSON X
— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) July 27, 2020
Very sad news 💜 love and prayers to Denise’s family and loved ones. Rest in Power Denise Johnson x pic.twitter.com/qsAKN6yqL1
— simone marie (@simonemarie4) July 27, 2020
"Shocked and devastated to hear of the passing of Denise Johnson. An absolutely beautiful lady," New Order's Stephen Morris said.
Shocked and devastated to hear of the passing of Denise Johnson. An absolutely beautiful lady. Rest In Peace Denise x
— stephen morris (@stephenpdmorris) July 27, 2020
English electronic music group 808 State shared their tribute on Twitter, saying: "Her voice sews so many memories together in many contexts."
I cant believe the news that Denise Johnson has passed -Her voice sews so many memories together in many contexts - but most of all she gave the best hugs -but you can hear that cant you ? xxxx pic.twitter.com/jHptOaLF6p
— 808 State (@state808) July 27, 2020
We are all devastated to hear the news that our old friend and all round beautiful person Denise Johnson has passed away. What a loss for the many people who loved her pic.twitter.com/XM2trsLCsV
— Doves (@dovesmusicblog) July 27, 2020
"She was beautiful and alive and I am grateful my music was touched by her beauty," English musician Bernard Butler said.
I am saddened to hear of Denise Johnson's passing. I invited her to sing on my album because I heard her voice when I wrote the songs. I didn't ask for a backing singer; I asked for Denise Johnson. She was beautiful and alive and I am grateful my music was touched by her beauty.
— Bernard Butler (@Bernard_Butler) July 27, 2020
Oh dear that’s awfully sad news about Denise Johnson, she was amazing. #rip #dontfightitfeelit
— ed simons (@eddychemical) July 27, 2020
Johnson was set to release her debut solo album this year on September 25, titled Where Does It Go.
The vocalist has previously featured on tracks with the music groups Primal Scream, A Certain Ratio and the Pet Shop Boys.
She had also provided vocals for releases by Ian Brown, Bernard Butler and Michael Hutchence.
