John Lodge, the vocalist and bass player of the renowned British rock band the Moody Blues for over five decades, has passed away at the age of 82. The sad news was shared by his family on Friday, expressing their profound grief at his sudden and unexpected death. They revealed that Lodge passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones and listening to the music of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly.
Hailing from Birmingham, Lodge became a member of the Moody Blues in 1966, joining forces with fellow singer Justin Hayward after Denny Laine and Clint Warwick departed from the band. His journey with the Moody Blues spanned until 2018 when the band ceased live performances.
Lodge’s musical contributions are evident in the band’s iconic works, such as the groundbreaking 1967 album “Days of Future Passed,” recognized as one of rock’s pioneering concept albums, and the subsequent release in 1968, “In Search of the Lost Chord.”
His presence was also felt on the band’s 1977 album “Octave,” marking a shift towards a more pop-influenced sound. Lodge remained an integral part of the group, participating in their musical endeavors until their final studio album in 2003, “December,” a compilation of holiday tunes.
The Moody Blues continued to captivate audiences with live performances until 2018, the same year they were honored with induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.