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

BY Allie GregoryPublished Jul 27, 2020

Manchester singer Denise Johnson, best known for her performances on Primal Scream's classic 1991 album Screamadelica, has passed away. She was 56 years old.

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 Order 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, 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.
 

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