The death has been announced of Denise Johnson, the singer best known for her work on Primal Scream's classic album Screamadelica.
The BBC reports that a statement issued by Johnson's family said she "died suddenly" after an illness.
Some sad news tonight, Manchester singer Denise Johnson has died.
— BBC Radio Manchester (@BBCRadioManc) July 27, 2020
Brought up in Hulme, she was best known for her work with Primal Scream.
The full statement from her family is below: pic.twitter.com/NPIHu5fXI2
The statement said that the singer had been "ill in the week prior to her death, but told friends she was 'much better' on Friday".
"The cause of death is not yet known, although she was discovered holding her inhaler on Monday morning," it continued.
Manchester-born Johnson was a member of Primal Scream from 1990 to 1995. She sang on 1991's Screamadelica with standout vocals on the tracks Higher Than the Sun and Don't Fight It, Feel It. She went on to sing on the band's 1994 album Give Out But Don't Give Up.
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Johnson also provided vocals for acts including the Pet Shop Boys, New Order, Electronic, Ian Brown, Mike Scott, A Certain Ratio and many more.
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She had been preparing to release her debut solo album, Where Does It Go, on September 25. The tracklist for the acoustic album includes original material alongside covers of New Order, The Smiths and 10CC.
For those asking, my debut acoustic album 'Where Does It Go' is now available for pre-order.
— Denise Johnson (@TheDJohnsonR3AL) July 18, 2020
Huge thanks to those that have got behind this, by either just liking/retweeting/commenting to pre-ordering x https://t.co/oFscBPONIE…@PiccadillyRecs https://t.co/LlKXmcT6IZ pic.twitter.com/7wMQSQwzSn
Here are some of the many tributes to Denise Johnson on social media:
Such sad news about our dear friend Denise Johnson. Playing alongside her was something else. It was a privilege to work with her. pic.twitter.com/QnY0Rsqx2Z
— Johnny Marr (@Johnny_Marr) July 27, 2020
RIP LOVELY DENISE JOHNSON X
— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) July 27, 2020
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
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
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
I truly felt this, still do.
— erol alkan (@erolalkan) July 27, 2020
Rest in peace Denise Johnson.
My most sincere condolences to her family and friends.https://t.co/JNxKPcGRLu
Sad sad news today ??
— Rowetta ?? (@Rowetta) July 27, 2020
I have so many great memories of Denise from when we were young.
We just used to sing & laugh like naughty schoolgirls all the time.
A great loss to Manchester and music.
My condolences to her family & loved ones. pic.twitter.com/ykNsjPMxmD
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
New Order are devastated to hear the sad news that Denise Johnson has passed away. She was a beautiful person with a huge talent. Her voice graced many of our albums and live shows and that of our friends. We will miss her dearly. pic.twitter.com/9elTLCiHG8
— New Order (@neworder) July 27, 2020
It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beautiful dear friend Denise has passed away.
— A Certain Ratio (@acrmcr) July 27, 2020
A full statement will be released later, for now please give her family and friends the space they need. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/aJpsr2sQ13
Sending our thoughts and condolences to the friends and family of much-loved Manchester singer and City fan Denise Johnson following the sad news of her passing.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) July 27, 2020
