John Reid, the Glasgow-born DJ, producer, and vocalist renowned as the frontman of Nightcrawlers, has died suddenly at the age of 61. His passing has sent waves through the music world, prompting heartfelt tributes from fans, collaborators, and fellow musicians who admired his soulful voice and prolific songwriting career.
Reid’s name is forever linked with the 1992 dance anthem "Push The Feeling On," a track that became a defining sound of the 1990s club scene. Originally a hit in the UK, the song found renewed global success years later through remixes by underground artists such as JCA and Rosabot, eventually reaching number one on the US Dance Charts. Its enduring popularity was further cemented by remixes featuring artists like Big Narstie, transforming it into a club classic and ensuring Reid’s legacy within dance music history.
Beyond his iconic vocal work with Nightcrawlers, Reid enjoyed a distinguished career as a songwriter. He co-wrote Tina Turner’s 1999 hit single "When the Heartache Is Over," a track that showcased his ability to craft powerful pop anthems. His songwriting talents also extended to penning "A Moment Like This," a chart-topping ballad recorded by both Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis, which became a defining song for both artists.
Reid’s impressive catalogue includes collaborations with a variety of major artists. He wrote songs for Rod Stewart and co-wrote Westlife’s UK number one single "Unbreakable." Additionally, he worked alongside music industry heavyweights Simon Cowell and Ian Levine on "Whenever You Need Someone" for Bad Boys Inc. His versatility was evident in tracks crafted for groups like Eternal, Gemini, and Claire Richards’ festive song "My Heart Is Heading Home (This Christmas)."
Mary Kiani, the former TFX vocalist who was engaged to Reid for nine years, shared a deeply personal tribute on social media. Now living in Australia, Kiani revealed she learned of Reid’s sudden death on the morning of June 16, 2025. "Just heard this morning that my first love John Reid died suddenly," she wrote. Reflecting on their relationship, she recounted how they met in Glasgow but fell in love in London during the peak of their musical careers.
Kiani recalled their early days together with warmth: "He was recording his album with Roy Hay from Culture Club for his new band ‘This way up.’ Myself and Danusia DanooshaZaremba were on tour, and every night we met at the Columbian hotel. We bought our first flat in Dennistoun at ages 21 and 22. We were both doing great with our music. The birth of The Nightcrawlers happened (Push The Feeling On). We toured, we recorded, we did our vocal sessions together."
Despite parting ways nine years later, Kiani and Reid reconnected in 2024. "Last year, I got in touch with him. I said I’d love to say hello again before one of us dies. I saw him just last year in Glasgow. RIP John, Love Bubbs xoXO," she added, expressing the lasting bond they shared despite the years apart.
Chris Judge, vocal coach to Susan Boyle and singer with the Celtic rock band Red Hot Chilli Pipers, also paid tribute to Reid’s talent and character. "RIP John Reid, an incredible Scottish singer with so much soul most famous for his vocals in the Nightcrawlers hit Push The Feeling On," Judge wrote. He highlighted Reid’s influence beyond his own recordings, noting how the song has been sampled countless times by artists such as Pitbull and in the Friday anthem by Riton, Mufasa & Hypeman.
Judge further praised Reid’s songwriting skills, calling him "an extremely talented topline writer." He recalled their shared history during his boy band days, describing Reid as "always such a nice guy, very encouraging and supportive to all the new bands." He added, "He had so much success as a writer but it was his voice I loved. He was an incredible singer and well respected like Mary in the session scene, doing all the backing vocals working for people like Ian Levine."
John Reid’s influence extended across genres and decades, with his work touching pop, dance, and soul music. His voice became synonymous with 90s dance music, while his songwriting talents helped shape hits for some of the biggest names in the industry. His legacy lives on not only in the timeless tracks he created but also in the memories and stories shared by those who knew and worked with him.
Reid attended Crookston Castle school in Glasgow, where his musical journey began before rising to international fame. His 1992 single "Push The Feeling On" topped the UK dance charts and reached the top 10 across Europe, peaking at number three in the UK. It remains his signature anthem and a staple of dance floors worldwide.
Though the cause of his sudden death has not been disclosed, the outpouring of tributes reveals the profound impact John Reid had on the music community and fans alike. From the dance clubs of the 90s to the songwriting rooms behind chart-topping hits, Reid’s artistry and spirit resonated deeply.
As the music world mourns, his songs continue to echo, reminding us of a gifted artist whose voice and pen shaped a generation. John Reid’s story is one of talent, passion, and enduring influence—a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.
