Book of Celebration

A wonderful, wonderful man. An incredible talent as both songwriter and singer. What a voice! And an absolute gentlemen on TOP of it all. Only met him briefly but his passing has hit incredibly hard. That can only be because his music connected so well with me, with us! Missing you CV

RIP Colin, thank you for your wonderful music

I first heard Colin’s music in 1987 when ‘Wonderful life’ album was released by A&M. His voice was immediately striking, but there was a beauty and intelligence about his music that kept me interested and I kept on buying his records: it always surprised me that he didn’t get a ‘bigger place’ in the pop world but everyone has different responses to music. I was just glad that he continued to make his own music on his own terms (as much as any artist can).
I first saw him play life in 1993 when he was promoting ‘Are we having fun yet?’, and seeing him onstage for the first time he didn’t look immediately as I expected him (his hair and beard made him look more like a handsome Gary Oldman at the time rather than the image I knew from his first two albums). However, his voice live was as beautiful and stunning as I could have hoped for and he had an amazing live presence. He was a tall and charismatic and had an easy way with his supporting band. He would often introduce his then wife as ‘Lady Black’ and it was always a treat when they sang ‘Fly up to the moon’ together.
Colin’s music changed over the years as he grew and took on different styles. Although superficially it was lack of backing from bigger record labels that made him take on a more acoustic route at later gigs - it also meant that as a fan you could watch him perform at small venues, and he always was relaxed and funny in front of whatever size crowds he had. His voice and presence was always worth seeing at any venue and I always looked forward to hearing his new songs.
Now that Colin is gone in such an unexpected way, I feel sympathy for his sons in particular as I lost my own father ten years ago and I can only imagine what they are going through. My thoughts also go out to his wife, family and friends.
I still listen to Colin’s music most days, and I’m still so thankful to him - as the songs have been a constant companion through the years. I’m amazed at how often his lyrics make me smile and I feel that he’s still around every time I listen to his music. I only hope that if there is an afterlife he should know that he’ll be cherished and not forgotten by those who love his music.

Colin is sorely missed. Me and my family have loved getting to know him better and witnessing his growth as an artist and his wonderful collaborations over the years. The community is poorer without him. RIP Colin. All love to you and your lovely family.

No need to run and hide its a wonderful, wonderful life! Thanks for the memories my fellow scousers! R.I.P. Mate x

Thanks Colin for making my life that bit more wonderful!x

A "Prescot boy done good" so proud to have known you, rest in eternal peace Colin, fly with the Angels. Xxxx

I Remember my 80's. I discover Colin's music...At that time, no Internet, so, me a Young teenager speaking french living in the province of Québec, I decided to write a message to Colin by mail. You can't imagine how happy I was, when I receive a postcard signed from him. I re-discovered Colin 2-3 years ago, he was still generous, humble, so fantastic. His music is touching hearts directly. Will always remember is last video he sent us, to say chears for xmas/newyear. I think of you, will never forget. I want to express my condoles to the family. Thank you for everytihng.

Dearest Colin - i am still so sad because you have gone but it still feels that you are here - with us - you will be in my heart forever - thank you for all you have done
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