Paul Spencer, the electronic musician and DJ known as Dario G, has died.
A statement shared to Spencer’s social media today, 17th June, confirmed that the producer behind the 1997 hit, ‘Sunchyme’, had passed away following a battle with stage 4 rectal cancer.
It read: “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.”
On 25th May, after a period of time in hospital, Spencer shared a message on social media, which read: “I know you’ve been all been showing overwhelming support, love and strength for me. And countless others like me. I hope and prey everyone gets their best opportunity. Thank you.”
Spencer had been open about his battle with cancer since first being diagnosed last year, documenting his treatment journey online. In December 2023, he released a charity single, ‘Savour The Miracle of Life’ with all funds being donated to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Originally a trio comprising Spencer, Scott Rosser and Stephen Spencer (no relation of Paul), Dario G formed in Crewe, Cheshire in 1997, devising their name in tribute to the then manager of Crewe Alexandra F.C., Dario Gradi, and jazz saxophonist Kenny G. They released their debut single, the uplifting house anthem ‘Sunchyme’, that same year. The track, which sampled The Dream Academy’s ‘Life in a Northern Town’, went to No. 2 in the UK singles charts.
The trio’s subsequent single, ‘Carnaval de Paris’, was released in conjunction with the 1998 FIFA World Cup and has gone on to become a widely used song by football teams around the globe.
Dario G released their debut album, ‘Sunmachine’, in 1998. Their 2000 track, ‘Voices’, featured in the film, The Beach.
After Rosser and Stephen Spencer left the group, Paul continued to make music and DJ as Dario G for over two decades, and released the album, ‘Hola’, in 2020.
Tributes have been paid for Spencer following the news of his passing. Read some of those, and listen to ‘Sunchyme’ and ‘Carnaval de Paris’ below.