Music producer Dario G has died

Dario G became famous for songs such as “Sunchyme” and “Carnaval de Paris”. Last year, Paul Spencer was diagnosed with advanced stage rectal cancer.

The 53-year-old's family announced his death on his Instagram profile. “He was positive until the end, but it was a battle he could no longer fight. He left behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people. He will be sadly missed by all who loved him,” they wrote.

Dario G was originally a group formed by Paul Spencer and Scott Rosser, who met while studying music in Manchester in the 1990s. After graduating, they set up a small studio at Spencer's house in Cheshire, and later invited a third person, Stephen Spencer.

In 1997, their song “Sunchyme” became very popular. It sold over 600,000 in the UK. copies, but the first place on the charts was stolen by Elton John's tribute to Princess Diana – “Candle In The Wind”.

The band – named after Crewe Alexandra FC's then manager, Dario Gradi – achieved their next success with “Carnaval De Paris”. Their other hits include “Sunmachine”, “Voices” and “Dream to Me”.

Scott and Stephen eventually left the band, and Paul continued as a solo project. During this period he recorded a song called “We Got Music” with Shirley Bassey and collaborated with Clean Bandit and Jess Glynne.

Paul Spencer announced his cancer diagnosis in June last year. He told fans he would “give it my all” and urged them to “stay positive because he is.” Over the following months, he documented his treatment on social media and released the song “Savor the Miracle of Life”, from which he donated the proceeds to the Macmillan Cancer Support foundation.

In his last entry, published three weeks before his death, he continued to maintain a positive attitude. “I know you all have shown me great support, love and strength,” he wrote. “I feel that I now have the energy to fully overcome this disease,” he added.