James Prime, founding member and keyboard player for Deacon Blue, has died at the age of 64.

The musician, who was rushed to hospital last week, at which time it was confirmed that he would be exiting the band’s upcoming tour, passed away on Thursday (June 19) morning, a social media post from the group confirmed.

“We announce with great sadness that our brother, James Prime, passed away this morning after a short struggle with cancer,” it read.

“Thank you so much for the messages of support that you shared over the last two weeks, they meant so much to Jim, his family and us.”

The Real Gone Kid hitmakers shared details of his “serious” condition last week.

“Unfortunately he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital,” they wrote on X. “We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share your love with him.”

Insisting they were given their bandmate’s “full blessing” to hit the road without him, they added: “We spoke to Jim yesterday about Deacon Blue’s plans for the rest of the year, and he encouraged us to continue with love in our hearts and with his full blessing that the shows go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being.

“Together with Jim’s family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors and ICU staff for their ongoing care, professionalism and compassion.”

James had been a member of Deacon Blue since its inception in the 1980s.