President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has led tributes to Aslan frontman Christy Dignam, who has died at the age of 63.
President Higgins said Dignam and his Aslan bandmates "made an enormous contribution to the cultural life of our nation".
"People across Ireland and beyond will have heard with great sadness of the death of Christy Dignam," he added.
"Over recent years, all of us have been struck by the dignity with which Christy lived with his illness and admired his dedication in continuing to both perform and record, including his 2021 solo album, despite the challenges which he faced. It is hard to believe that he has left us."
In a post on social media, his daughter Kiera confirmed her father's passing, and said; "On behalf of my family, it is with a broken heart that we convey the news of my father's passing, Christy Dignam.
"Dad peacefully left us where he wanted to, at home today 4pm Tuesday, June 13th, 2023, after a courageously long-fought battle, surrounded by his family."
Signing her message "Kathryn, Kiera, Darren, Cian, Ava, Jake and our extended family," she added, "Let us all hold him in our hearts and cherish the remarkable life of a talented singer, great storyteller and amazing person."
Aslan said: "We are beyond devastated to have lost not only our band member, but our friend, Christy, that we have so many, many years of sharing our lives with.
"The band and Christy's family ask for you to respect their privacy at this time."
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar described Christy Dignam as a legend in Irish music, and a great Dubliner, whose loss will be sorely felt in his home town and in the wider music community.
In a tweet, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said he was "Deeply saddened at the passing of Christy Dignam.
"A true legend of Irish music, Christy has left a rich legacy. His great talent brought much joy to the Irish people.
"His brave and dignified battle with cancer inspired many. My sympathies to his family and Aslan bandmates."
In a statement to RTÉ U2 frontman Bono described Dignam as one of the greatest voices he ever heard. He said: "A pure signal in a world of noise. One of the greatest voices I ever heard."
Singer Finbar Furey said his "heart is broken" to hear that his "great friend" Christy Dignam has died at the age of 63. The pair collaborated on a version of The Green Fields of France on RTÉ's Late Late Show.
Minister for Arts Catherine Martin said, "My thoughts are with Christy Dignam's family, bandmates, friends, and fans on this sad day. His strength, character, and talent will always be remembered every time we hear his iconic singing voice. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Other figures from the worlds of music, showbiz and politics are taking to social media to pay tribute to the late Dignam.
Dublin band The Script tweeted, "We're devastated to hear the news about our friend and hero, Christy Dignam. We were blessed to share the stage with @OfficialAslan Christy in Dublin. We've lost a Legend, one of a kind, our thoughts and prayers are with his family RIP Christy. Danny & Glen."
Singer Brian Kennedy posted a photo of him with Dignam, writing, "Ah goodness me how sad….and yet how glad that the cruel cancer journey is finally at an end. What a joy it was to spend any time with you Christy. Sleep the long sleep & rest in the deepest peace. Love to your loved ones. BK x."
Music broadcaster and Hothouse Flowers band member Fiachna Ó Braonáin tweeted: "Very very sad news... I enjoyed every single encounter I had with you over the years… slán leat Christy.. deepest sympathies to your family and friends… suaimhneas síoraí i solas na bhflaitheas."
Musician Jim Sheridan said on Twitter that Dignam was, "One of the greatest frontman Ireland ever had. I first met him in Temple Bar rehearsal studios in 1987 and was lucky enough to play keyboards for him a good few times over the years. He didn’t just sing a song, he 'lived it’ and that is special."
Singer Maykay wrote, "One of the warmest, most encouraging & interesting people you’re ever likely to come across in the business. RIP Christy."
Actor Laurence Kinlan said, "Dublin & Aslan has lost one of its greats. RIP Christy. What a talented man he was. A truly unique voice. Aslan is never off my radio, I absolutely love them! A rough few years for Christy, I hope he’s at peace now. A sad day for Ireland. #ChristyDignam."
