Dance music hitmaker Dario G dies from cancer aged 53

The musician, whose real name was Paul Spencer, had been diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer last year.

His 1997 hit Sunchyme was used at the beginning of the final show in hit TV series Derry Girls, in which Orla joins a troupe of Irish dancers along the city’s iconic walls.

The show’s creator, Lisa McGee, paid tribute to the performer on X.

"Oh God this is so sad. Thank you for the light you brought into our lives. This track is an incredibly special one for me personally. Go well xxx,” she posted.

Mr Spencer’s family broke the news via his official Instagram page on Monday evening.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today,” they said.

"He was positive until the end but this was one battle he could not fight anymore. He leaves behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people.

"He will be sadly missed by everyone who loved him. Shine bright our big star.”

The singer had continued to update fans via his social media pages since his diagnosis in 2023.

In April this year, he posted a number of videos of himself playing piano, as well as a post asking fans for “love, prayers, healing energy and vibes”.

"I’m a fighter but wow this is a fight. I’d appreciated your love, prayers, healing energy & vibes. A cure would be pretty useful too :) Currently in hospital for acute pain. Radio therapy next week. Looking to future therapies too. Thank you all. Happy thoughts only please,” he said.

Dario G was also behind the hugely popular hit Carnaval de Paris. Recorded for the 1998 World Cup in France, it became a football anthem and has been played at grounds since.

Originally a trio, the stage name was derived from the former Crewe Alexandra FC manager Dario Gradi, and the club paid tribute to Mr Spencer following his death.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Spencer, who was a part of the dance group, Dario G. Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this difficult time,” they said.

DJ Sigala, real name Bruce Fielder, 31, who is known for hits including Came Here For Love and Sweet Lovin’, said the Spencer had encouraged him to get himself checked for cancer.

He said: “That’s so sad. A true inspiration, he brought joy to so many people and will live on forever through his music.

“Paul told me many times over the last year ‘Go get yourself checked’ so I’m passing on that message to anyone reading this, as I’m sure he would want me to.

“Our health should be more of a priority!

“He will be missed greatly. Sending love to his family, rest in peace buddy xx.”

British DJ MistaJam said he was sending his love and condolences to his friends and family.

Singer Sonique said: “Rest in peace my friend. We will miss you that’s for sure.”

The official Instagram page of charity Macmillan Cancer Support wrote: “We are sad to hear of Paul’s death and sending love to his friends and family.

“Last year he released a charity single, ‘Savour the Miracle of Life’ with the profits kindly being donated to us to help us support people living with cancer.

“He was incredibly kind and will be missed by everyone who knew him.”

Radio presenter Chris Stark encouraged people to listen to Dario G’s song Sunchyme “on loud”.

On X he called the late musician “one of the loveliest, supportive, brilliantly creative people I’ve ever known”.

Spencer revealed in an online post last year that he had stage four rectal cancer and a shadow on his liver.

In a video from January Spencer said his cancer had grown in his liver and had also spread to his lungs.