Richard Darbyshire, Voice of Living In A Box, Passes Away at 65
Today, we remember Richard Darbyshire, the charismatic frontman of the 1980s pop band Living In A Box, who has passed away at the age of 65. His family confirmed his death on Monday, November 10, 2025, sharing a heartfelt statement: “We are all very sad, but his memory and songs will live on.” No cause of death has been disclosed, but his influence on music and his contributions to pop culture are undeniable.
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Richard Darbyshire first rose to fame as the lead singer of Living In A Box, a band formed in Sheffield in the mid-1980s. Their debut single, also called Living In A Box , became a worldwide hit in 1987, reaching the Top 20 in the US and number five on the UK Singles Chart. The band followed it up with further hits, including the brooding, soulful ballad Room In Your Heart , which highlighted Darbyshire’s distinctive vocal depth. Known for his ability to infuse emotion into every performance, his singing gave the band a signature sound that was both powerful and tender.
Although the band enjoyed commercial success, Darbyshire left in 1989 due to creative differences that arose during the making of their third album. His departure marked the start of a prolific solo career, which included the 1994 album How Many Angels and songwriting contributions to artists such as Lisa Stansfield, Jennifer Rush, and Level 42. Even after leaving the band, his work remained influential, with some unreleased Living In A Box tracks resurfacing on his solo projects.
Darbyshire’s musical journey began long before Living In A Box. Born in Stockport, Cheshire, he moved to Japan at age 13 and later studied English Literature at Oxford University. Before his pop stardom, he was a member of the Manchester band Zu Zu Sharks, which scored a minor European hit in 1983. His collaboration with Marcus Vere and Anthony “Tich” Critchlow at a Sheffield studio ultimately led to the formation of the band that would define his career.
Even as a celebrated performer, Darbyshire was described by his bandmates as a “reluctant pop star.” He shunned the limelight, avoiding photo shoots, TV appearances, and interviews, finding joy primarily in the studio, guitar in hand, crafting the next song. Marcus Vere and Anthony Critchlow paid tribute to him, emphasizing his talent as a vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, and reflecting fondly on the laughter and adventures they shared.
Later in life, Darbyshire dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of musicians, running songwriting workshops in London alongside his wife, vocal coach Sonia Jones. His legacy is preserved not just in the hits he performed, but in the countless artists and fans he inspired.
Richard Darbyshire’s voice, artistry, and spirit will continue to resonate with music lovers around the world, a reminder of the magic he created both on stage and behind the scenes.
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