Chris Rea is a British rock and blues singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his distinctive husky-gravel voice and slide guitar playing. Born in Middlesbrough, England, in 1951, Rea achieved commercial success in the 1980s with hits like "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "On the Beach." His biggest hit, "Driving Home for Christmas," has become a seasonal classic. His music, often underscored by a narrative storytelling style, combines elements of rock, blues, and pop, with influences from his Italian heritage and Northern English roots.