90s pop icon Dario G dies aged 53 as tributes flood in for ‘true inspiration'

Dario G Instagram

Dance producer and musician Dario G, who created the hit song Sunchyme, has died at the age of 53. He was diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer last year.

His family confirmed his death on his official Instagram page. They wrote: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today.

"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 - K, A & H xxx."

The 90s pop icon, real name Paul Spencer, detailed the news of his diagnosis in a tweet last summer. He stated: "Hard to write this. I've just found out that I've got stage 4 rectal cancer and a shadow on my liver.

"That's damn hard to read too I'm sure. Gonna give it my best shot though."

A number of famous musicians and DJs have flooded the comments section with emotional tributes. Bruce Fielder, known professionally as Sigala, 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."

One fan penned: "What a sad loss to the world and to music ... such a nice person... RIP Paul .." as another person wrote: " Such sad news such a lovely guy. Absolutely devastated Go and play some tunes up there mate xx."

The musician was originally in a trio which created the hit dance classic Sunchyme in 1997 and later reached number two in the official UK charts.

The group was formed in Cheshire and shortly after the success of Sunchyme, their follow-up single 'Carnaval de Paris' was released in 1998. It became a famous football anthem during the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.

Speaking to The Mirror last year, Spencer revealed that he was undergoing chemotherapy. He shared: " The chemo and the medication arrested and stopped the pain and then I think the chemo starts to take an effect."

He cancelled his first show of 2024 at the County Ground due to his illness, saying that he was "desperate to make it".