Moody Blues' John Lodge dies 'suddenly and unexpectedly' as tributes pour in for singer
The Moody Blues icon John Lodge has died aged 82, 'suddenly and unexpectedly,' his family has announced in a statement, as tributes to the singer are pouring in
John Lodge, the beloved icon of the Moody Blues, has passed away at the age of 82. His family announced his sudden and unexpected death in a heart-wrenching statement.
The English rock star's family wrote, "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.
"Anyone who knew this big-hearted man knows that his enduring love for his wife, Kirsten, and his family was paramount to him, followed by his passion for music and his faith. John peacefully slipped away, surrounded by his loved ones and the sounds of The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly."
The statement continued, "We will forever miss his love, smile, kindness and his absolute and never-ending support.
"We are heartbroken, but will walk forward 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."
Born in Erdington, Birmingham, the singer attended the Birmingham College of Advanced Technology for engineering. He cited musicians like Jerry Lee Lewis and Buddy Holly as his early influences.
At the tender age of 14, he met Ray Thomas, who would later become his bandmate. Lodge was an active participant in the Birmingham music scene from a young age, although he occasionally took breaks to focus on his studies.
In 1966, when Clint Warwick, the original bassist for the Moody Blues, left the band, Lodge stepped in as the new bassist and vocalist. This happened around the same time that guitarist/vocalist Justin Hayward joined the band, replacing Denny Laine.
John's distinctive falsetto played a significant role in reviving the Moody Blues. His songwriting talents can be seen in tracks like Peak Hour, (Evening) Time to Get Away, Ride My See-Saw, House of Four Doors, Eyes of a Child, Send Me No Wine, Candle of Life, and more.
In 1975, John teamed up with bandmate Justin on the album Blue Jays. He also launched his solo career with the release of Natural Avenue in 1977. During the 70s, he produced music for the band Trapeze.
By the 80s, the star had released several singles and co-written numerous songs for his band. In 1985, he was honored with the Ivor Novello Award for his Outstanding Contribution to Music.
In September 2019, John received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Annual Prog Awards in London.
John leaves behind his wife, Kirsten, and their two children, Emily and Kristian.