The Moody Blues’ John Lodge dies “suddenly and unexpectedly”, aged 82

John Lodge, vocalist of The Moody Blues, has died “suddenly and unexpectedly”, aged 82.

The news was confirmed by his family, who said he “peacefully slipped away surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly”.

“It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that John Lodge, our darling husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law and brother, has been suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us,” his family said in a statement.

“As anyone who knew this massive-hearted man knows, it was his enduring love of his wife, Kirsten, and his family, that was the most important thing to him, followed by his passion for music, and his faith,” they continued, nodding to his evangelical Christian beliefs.

“We will forever miss his love, smile, kindness, and his absolute and never-ending support. We are heartbroken, but will walk forwards into peace surrounded by the love he had for each of us.

“As John would always say at the end of the show, thank you for keeping the faith.”

The Birmingham-born vocalist and bassist joined the band 1966 with fellow singer Justin Hayward, following the departures of Denny Laine and Clint Warwick.

He featured on some of The Moody Blues’ best-known albums including 1967’s ‘Days Of Future Passed’ and 1968’s more experimental effort ‘In Search Of The Lost Chord’. Lodge also played on hits including ‘Nights In White Satin’, ‘Question’ and ‘Isn’t Life Strange’.

His family continued: “He was never happier than being on stage. He was just a singer in a rock’n’roll band and he adored performing with his band and son-in-law, Jon, and being able to continue sharing this music with his fans.

“It gave him even more joy to be able to work with his daughter Emily and son Kristian and spend time watching his grandson John-Henry play football and dream of him playing for Birmingham City one day.”

Lodge continued making records with The Moody Blues until their final album, ‘December’, a Christmas album released in 2003. They performed live until 2018, the same year that they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

His death comes not long after that of keyboard player and founding member Mike Pinder. Lodge confirmed the death of his bandmate in April 2024.

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