80s Scottish pop rock musician ‘seriously ill’ in intensive care

Deacon Blue musician James Prime has been rushed to hospital (Picture: Roberto Ricciuti/ Redferns)

Deacon Blue keyboard player James Prime is ‘seriously’ ill after being rushed to hospital.

Formed in Glasgow in 1985, the Scottish pop rock band’s line-up also includes vocalists Ricky Ross and Lorraine McIntosh, drummer Dougie Vipond, guitarist Gregor Philp and bassist Lewis Gordon.

Since releasing their debut album Raintown in 1987, the band have achieved 12 UK top 40 singles and have sold over seven million copies of their 12 albums.

However just a few months after the release of their album The Great Western Road, the band have revealed James, 64, is currently seriously unwell.

‘Dear friends, we wanted to share some news with you about our brother, Jim,’ they began.

‘Unfortunately, he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital. We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share our love with him.

The band revealed the Scottish musician has been in intensive care (Picture: Rex/ Shutterstock) Fans sent messages of support to the keyboard player, far left (Picture: Rex/ Shutterstock)

The band, who are currently on tour across the UK went on to say James had ‘encouraged us to continue’

‘We spoke to Jim yesterday about Deacon Blue’s plans for the rest of the year, and he encouraged us to continue with love in our hearts and with his full blessing that the shows go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being,’ they continued.

‘Together with Jim’s family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors and ICU staff for their ongoing care, professionalism and compassion.”

It is not clear what James has been hospitalised with.

Fans of the band rushed to support the musician, sending messages of support.

‘Wishing Jim all the positive vibes for recovery,’ Alison commented on Instagram.

‘Sending much love. Get well soon!’ Steph shared.

The band will be continuing their current tour (Picture: Kieran Frost/ Redferns)

‘All love, prayers, and harmonic thoughts to the mighty Jim Prime,’ Eve added.

Born in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, James began his career as a session musician on an Altered Images tour of the US in 1980.

It was after the band split up that he helped form Deacon Blue, who grew to become one of Scotland’s best-known acts.

After splitting in 1994, they re-formed five years later and have since released seven more albums.

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