‘We will miss you more than we could ever say’: Devastated Beverley Knight pays tribute to bandmate Paul Reid after musician died suddenly on Christmas Day
Beverley Knight has paid an emotional tribute to close friend and long-term musical director Paul Reid following his sudden death on Christmas Day.
Reid – a successful session guitarist who served as a member of Beverley’s band for more than four years – passed away unexpectedly on Christmas morning, leaving behind a wife and son.
The musician had also worked with former girl group The Saturdays in the years prior to his death.
Devastated: Beverley Knight has paid an emotional tribute to close friend and long-term musical director Paul Reid following his sudden death on Christmas Day
Taking to Twitter on Sunday, devastated soul singer Beverley, 47, admitted she was still reeling after learning of his passing.
Sharing a message with fans, she wrote: ‘On Christmas Day morning, our MD, our friend, our brother Paul Reid passed away. There are n o words that can adequately express the shock upon hearing the news, and the pain of trying to process and make sense of it all.
‘Our hearts go out to his wife, son, his parents and family.
Tragic: Reid – a successful session guitarist who served as a member of Beverley’s band for more than four years – passed away unexpectedly on Christmas morning, leaving behind a wife and son
We miss you: Taking to Twitter on Sunday, devastated soul singer Beverley admitted she was still reeling after learning of his passing
‘Music is often referred to as the most inclusive, the most unifying language of all. That bond of music, love and family between myself, my band and Reidy as he was affectionately known by all, was is and will always remain eternal.
‘We love you Reidy. We will miss you more than we could ever say. Heaven’s great fortune is our deepest loss.’
The post was met with a wave of support from followers, with some already aware of Reid’s contribution to Beverley’s band.
Reaching out: The post was met with a wave of support from followers, with some already aware of Reid’s contribution to Beverley’s band
Responding to the message, one wrote: ‘I am so sorry for You and your band mates loss, band mates and especially md’s can feel like family, sending love and thoughts.’
A second added: ‘Oh mate I’m so sorry to hear this. Sending your gang and Paul’s family so much love and light.’
While a third wrote: ‘Terribly sorry for your loss. Sending love to you and all who knew him.’
Support: Former Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon also reached out on Sunday evening
Talented: Reid (not pictured) enjoyed a successful working relationship with Beverley and her band of talented musicians
Elsewhere a fourth posted: ‘So sorry to hear of this Beverley, I know Paul has been an integral part of your entire career. His playing has brought so much pleasure to so many people, long may reign his influence and importance!’
The Feeling’s Dan Gillespie also commented on Reid’s death, writing: ‘Terribly sorry for your loss. Sending love to you and all who knew him xxx.’
Former Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon added: ‘I’m so sorry… such sad news. Sending love to you all.’
MailOnline has contacted Beverley’s representative for further comment.