Primal Scream Vocalist Denise Johnson Dead at 56
In addition to playing a pivotal role on 'Screamadelica,' she worked alongside New Order, Pet Shop Boys and A Certain Ratio

The artist's family confirmed her passing earlier today. Her cause of death has yet to be disclosed, though reports from loved ones claim that she had been feeling ill and was discovered this morning holding her inhaler.
Johnson was a prolific singer, having guested on numerous high-profile projects, including works by Johnny Marr and Bernard Sumner's Electronic, A Certain Ratio, Pet Shop Boys, New OrderΒ and many more.
She remained working with Primal Scream for a period of five years, contributing vocal performances to songs like "Higher Than the Sun" and "Don't Fight It, Feel It." She is credited on the band's Screamadelica, as well as their 1994 record,Β Give Out but Don't Give Up.
Johnson sang with A Certain Ratio for 25 years.
Prior to this news, the artist was set to share her debut solo album Where Does It Go this fall. It is unclear whether the record will still arrive on its original September 25 release date.
Since her passing, the music industry has shared dozens of tributes to the late artist, some of which can be seen below.
Β
Some sad news tonight, Manchester singer Denise Johnson has died.
β 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
Sad sad news today π
β Rowetta π€ (@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
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
β New Order (@neworder) 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
β 808 State (@state808) 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.
β Bernard Butler (@Bernard_Butler) July 27, 2020
I truly felt this, still do.
β erol alkan (@erolalkan) July 27, 2020
Rest in peace Denise Johnson.
My most sincere condolences to her family and friends.https://t.co/JNxKPcGRLu
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
β Doves (@dovesmusicblog) July 27, 2020
RIP LOVELY DENISE JOHNSON X
β Ian Brown (@ianbrown) July 27, 2020
Shocked and devastated to hear of the passing of Denise Johnson. An absolutely beautiful lady. Rest In Peace Denise x
β stephen morris (@stephenpdmorris) July 27, 2020