British Singer and Songwriter Faye Fantarrow dies at 21 Cause of Brain Tumour
Faye Fantarrow: Sunderland singer dies of brain tumour
A singer-songwriter has passed away almost a year after receiving a devastating diagnosis of an aggressive brain tumor.
Faye Fantarrow, a talented musician from Sunderland, peacefully passed away at her home this Saturday. Her mentor, Dave Stewart of Eurythmics, who had been collaborating with her on an EP, paid tribute to her uniqueness, describing her as “amazing, funny, and full of life.”
Faye’s family celebrated her as “the brightest star on the darkest night” and emphasized her deep passion for life.
Faye, just 21 years old, had overcome childhood cancer twice before receiving the grim news of the aggressive tumor in August 2022 while working with Stewart. Despite her illness, Stewart cherished every moment of creating music with her and lamented her untimely loss, recognizing her potential to amass a devoted following that understood her heartfelt lyrics. He admired her authenticity, particularly her commitment to retaining her distinctive accent.
The local music community rallied to raise over £265,000 to facilitate her journey to the United States for treatment.
In an emotional statement, her family expressed their profound grief, describing Faye as possessing wisdom, compassion, and insight beyond her years. They remembered her as someone who loved passionately, laughed readily, and embraced life with exuberance.
A close family friend, Laura Brewis, the wife of David Brewis from Field Music, shared her memories of Faye, recalling their initial meeting in 2018 at an event for young musicians. Laura highlighted Faye’s immense natural talent, creative vision, and boundless energy, noting her rapid rise in recognition, including the endorsement of Dave Stewart.
Despite her challenging health journey, Faye remained dedicated to her art and refused to let her illness define her. She was known for her kindness, humor, sharp intellect, and her down-to-earth nature.
Laura Brewis also acknowledged Faye’s significant support for fellow musicians, emphasizing her integral role in the North East music scene. She viewed the outpouring of donations for Faye’s treatment in the U.S. as a testament to the impact she had on others.
Dave Stewart, who had been mentoring Faye, pledged £50,000 towards her treatment, and his former bandmate Annie Lennox contributed £10,000 to the fundraiser, which initially raised £100,000 in a week.
Laura Brewis concluded by stating that Faye would remain an enduring inspiration to young musicians in Sunderland and beyond, expressing gratitude for the privilege of having known her and the deep love they held for her.
