Iconic Folk Singer Roger Whittaker Dead At 87

Roger Whittaker, Singer of 'The Last Farewell,' Dead - Feature/YouTube

Tragic breaking news for fans of folk music as iconic singing sensation Roger Whittaker has been confirmed dead at the age of 87. Has any information about his cause of death been released just yet? Plus, take a look at his incredible life.

Iconic Folk Singer Roger Whittaker Dead At 87

Best known for his songs titled “Durham Town,” “New World in the Morning,” and “The Last Farewell,” Roger Whittaker was 87 years old at the time of his passing.

In a joint statement from his family and Sony Music, his death was confirmed today via his official website. Within the statement, his actual date of death was a week ago on Wednesday, September 13th. The official statement did not include any details on his cause of death, however, Given his age, some of his fans suspect he may have died of natural causes due to aging.

“It is with great sadness that we share that our beloved Roger Whittaker passed away on the 13th. September 2023 he left us in peace in the presence of his family. During this difficult time we would like to thank everyone for their support and compassion.”

The statement continues: “Roger was an iconic artist, a wonderful husband and father. He touched so many hearts with his music during his lifetime and will always live on in our memories. The family requests privacy as we go through this time of grief and we thank you for your understanding. Roger will be greatly missed, his legacy will forever live on in our hearts and in his art.”

A Closer Look At His Life

During the duration of his music career, he was known best for his song titled “The Last Farewell.” This particular song was a top 20 hit in 1975. Sadly, this musical talent retired back in 2012. This, however, was after he sold just shy of 50M records around the world. Roger Whittaker reportedly got the big break-out in his career back in the 60s. His big break-out moment that landed him in the spotlight was when he was asked to make an appearance on a TV show in Northern Ireland called This and That.

His song titled “Durham Town” was the first to top the charts in the UK. The singer, however, admitted during an interview that he didn’t have much faith in that particular hit.

I just didn’t have any faith in that song at all. Far from promoting the single in Britain, I went off to Finland for a cabaret season and television appearances.”

Devastated fans of his music have flooded social media as they mourn his tragic passing.

This incredibly talented musician is survived by his wife of nearly six decades, Natalie. He is also survived by their five children including Alexander, Emily, Guy, Jessica, and Lauren.

Rest in peace, Roger Whittaker.

Allie Johnson

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