Dainton Connell was killed in a car accident in Moscow in the early hours of this morning. He was in Moscow accompanying Chris Lowe who was planning to DJ at a friend’s nightclub there tonight. The friend driving him lost control of the car. There was no one else in the car.
Chris Lowe and Neil Tennant are “devastated” by this tragic news. They had known Dainton for almost 20 years, during which time he had worked for Pet Shop Boys as security and later as personal assistant. He was also a close friend.
“Dainton was a warm, kind, loveable friend, a huge Arsenal fan and a larger-than-life character, famous in North London and beyond. We are devastated by his sudden and tragic death and our thoughts and condolences are with his wife, Mandy, and their family.”
Dainton (also known as “The Bear”) accompanied Pet Shop Boys on their tours from 1989 to 2000. He can be seen in the videos for Pet Shop Boys’ singles, “Jealousy”, “So hard” and “Was it worth it?” as well as in the Somewhere concert film. We know that he was a familiar and friendly face to many PSB fans who encountered him over the years and that they will share in our grief and sorrow. Those who met him will never forget him.
I saw a wonderful concert by Arooj Aftab in Berlin tonight. She has the most beautiful voice and is accompanied by brilliant musicians who play with a rare delicacy. I’ve been listening to her album “Night Reign” which I highly recommend! Neil x
Recent News
Pet Shop Boys announce their new double A‑side single, “New London boy / All the young dudes”, and an accompanying remixes single, both of which are now available to pre-order on CD at the link below.
Pet Shop Boys today reveal a special expanded edition of their latest album, “Nonetheless”.
The official video for Pet Shop Boys’ new single “Feel”, directed by acclaimed young British artist Corbin Shaw and Rawtape, is now available to watch on YouTube at the link below.
BBC Radio 2 listeners have voted “West End girls” their favourite Pet Shop Boys song of all-time.
Neil has contributed spoken vocals to a new Superchumbo (Tom Stephan) remix of Bronski Beat’s “Why?”, which is out now.
Brand new merchandise for Pet Shop Boys’ acclaimed Royal Opera House residency is now available from the official PSB store.
Pet Shop Boys are playing the first of five sold-out shows at the Royal Opera House in London tonight. Each performance starts at 8pm. It’s going to be an exciting week!