Gutting news - Denise Johnson has died.
The legendary Manchester vocalist and queen had a powerful, soulful voice like no other. The immensely talented Johnson sang on iconic songs from so many bands including Primal Scream, New Order, Electronic, A Certain Ratio, Ian Brown, Pet Shop Boys and many more. Johnson's most recent project was recording her debut acoustic album Where Does It Go, featuring covers of songs by New Order, The Smiths, and more. The album had been slated for a September 25th release.
Johnson was 56 years old. Her family issued a statement regarding her death:
"Denise 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."
Meanwhile tributes continue to pour out on social media as the world learns the tragic and stunning news.
R.I.P.
A statement regarding our dear beautiful friend Denise Johnson on behalf of her family and beloved @sue_langford pic.twitter.com/bxGckj8vR1
— Michelle Hussey (@MichelleLHussey) 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
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
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
Shocked and saddened to hear about Denise - my heart goes out to the Johnson family for their terrible loss. Rest in peace Denise, singing with the angels. X— Peter Hook (@peterhook) July 27, 2020
RIP LOVELY DENISE JOHNSON X— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) 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
— Tim Burgess (@Tim_Burgess) July 27, 2020
DENISE XXX— NORTHSIDE (Official) (@NORTHSIDE___) July 27, 2020
RIP Denise xx— Paul Arthurs. (@BoneheadsPage) July 27, 2020
Denise Johnson. Beautiful inside and out. I can't believe it.— Nick McCabe (@NickMcCabe1) 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